LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Dearborn, MI

Photo of Chrystal Westbrook, MA LPC, NCC, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chrystal Westbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC, NCC, CCS
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
As a professional and a LGBTQ ally, I focus on human sexuality and all the many variables.
Struggling with the demands of life can become heavy, and at times we can feel stagnant. Do you feel alone in a crowded room? Can't connect with anyone to share your most intimate thoughts? I'm here for you, I'm here to listen empathetically and support you in viewing life from a different perspective. Over the last 10 years, some of my areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, stress related issues, domestic violence and sexual trauma.
As a professional and a LGBTQ ally, I focus on human sexuality and all the many variables.
Struggling with the demands of life can become heavy, and at times we can feel stagnant. Do you feel alone in a crowded room? Can't connect with anyone to share your most intimate thoughts? I'm here for you, I'm here to listen empathetically and support you in viewing life from a different perspective. Over the last 10 years, some of my areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, stress related issues, domestic violence and sexual trauma.
(313) 546-0153 View (313) 546-0153
Photo of Melissa Tavakoldavani, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Tavakoldavani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124
My greatest passion is helping teens, families and LGBTQ+ clients through difficult times. I would love to get to know you and where you're struggling so that we can develop the best plan to help you and your family move toward a happier, more productive life. I have over 15 years experience with children, teens and adults in both agency and school settings. My expertise includes play therapy, adolescent issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma and issues specific to LGB and gender diverse clients and their families.
My greatest passion is helping teens, families and LGBTQ+ clients through difficult times. I would love to get to know you and where you're struggling so that we can develop the best plan to help you and your family move toward a happier, more productive life. I have over 15 years experience with children, teens and adults in both agency and school settings. My expertise includes play therapy, adolescent issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma and issues specific to LGB and gender diverse clients and their families.
(313) 246-8543 View (313) 246-8543
Photo of Anxiety Specialist Incia Rashid-Dawdy, MA, NCC, LCPC-IL, LPC-MI, CST
Anxiety Specialist Incia Rashid-Dawdy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-IL, LPC-MI, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Incia Rashid-Dawdy, Therapist, Founder, and CEO of Curated Change Psychotherapy and Coaching, PLLC. I founded Curated Change for one simple reason: to provide fully-remote therapy and coaching services tailored to support people who are navigating the exhausting and uncertain world we all live in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois and Michigan, and as an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in working with Millennial, Gen-Z, BIPOC and LGBTQIA clients through a culturally-sensitive, queer-affirming, sex-positive lens, and have 10+ years of experience providing mental health care to those in need.
Welcome! I'm Incia Rashid-Dawdy, Therapist, Founder, and CEO of Curated Change Psychotherapy and Coaching, PLLC. I founded Curated Change for one simple reason: to provide fully-remote therapy and coaching services tailored to support people who are navigating the exhausting and uncertain world we all live in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois and Michigan, and as an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in working with Millennial, Gen-Z, BIPOC and LGBTQIA clients through a culturally-sensitive, queer-affirming, sex-positive lens, and have 10+ years of experience providing mental health care to those in need.
(989) 494-1376 View (989) 494-1376
Photo of Lorena Hernandez, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Lorena Hernandez
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48126
I am Lorena, a Psychologist - Master’s Level, in Dearborn. I became a clinical psychologist in 1998 upon graduating from the University of Guadalajara, and later obtained US licensure from the Michigan School of Psychology. I am Bilingual in Spanish and English. I am an LGBTQ-identifying therapist who speaks Spanish and English. I've utilized Talk Therapy and mindfulness with a CBT approach, in my experience with trauma, relationship problems, addiction, anxiety, depression, and chronic illness.
I am Lorena, a Psychologist - Master’s Level, in Dearborn. I became a clinical psychologist in 1998 upon graduating from the University of Guadalajara, and later obtained US licensure from the Michigan School of Psychology. I am Bilingual in Spanish and English. I am an LGBTQ-identifying therapist who speaks Spanish and English. I've utilized Talk Therapy and mindfulness with a CBT approach, in my experience with trauma, relationship problems, addiction, anxiety, depression, and chronic illness.
(313) 751-3846 View (313) 751-3846
Photo of Lucy M Grippo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy M Grippo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker who combines a holistic approach with research-supported therapeutic techniques in my clinical therapy practice. I am experienced working with those with anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and other adjustment issues. I have a special interest in supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am enthusiastic about working with you through all of the diverse and personal manifestations of mental healthiness.
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker who combines a holistic approach with research-supported therapeutic techniques in my clinical therapy practice. I am experienced working with those with anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and other adjustment issues. I have a special interest in supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am enthusiastic about working with you through all of the diverse and personal manifestations of mental healthiness.
(734) 600-9819 View (734) 600-9819
Photo of Brian Scott Kitson, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Brian Scott Kitson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
I also specialize in depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideations, specifically in the LGBTQ population.
As I like to tell my clients, anyone at any stage of their lives can benefit from therapy. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety, depression, or life stress, etc. Therapy helps by having someone to talk with, process the stress, and formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. Therapy works best as a collaborative process between the therapist and client, working together to achieve a positive and supportive workplace where mental and emotional health can thrive.
I also specialize in depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideations, specifically in the LGBTQ population.
As I like to tell my clients, anyone at any stage of their lives can benefit from therapy. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety, depression, or life stress, etc. Therapy helps by having someone to talk with, process the stress, and formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. Therapy works best as a collaborative process between the therapist and client, working together to achieve a positive and supportive workplace where mental and emotional health can thrive.
(586) 554-2804 View (586) 554-2804
Photo of Navil Noguera, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Navil Noguera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, and coping skills, amongst others.
I am licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW and LMSW) in the state of Florida and in the state of Michigan. I carry a strong background in psychology and social work at multiple capacities. I have a bachelors in psychology and masters degree in clinical social work. I have over 8 years of experience in a hospital setting, counseling backgrounds, inpatient facilities, case management, and therapeutic environments. I have worked with an array of populations and carry mental health experience in all ages.
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, and coping skills, amongst others.
I am licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW and LMSW) in the state of Florida and in the state of Michigan. I carry a strong background in psychology and social work at multiple capacities. I have a bachelors in psychology and masters degree in clinical social work. I have over 8 years of experience in a hospital setting, counseling backgrounds, inpatient facilities, case management, and therapeutic environments. I have worked with an array of populations and carry mental health experience in all ages.
(313) 631-9956 View (313) 631-9956
Photo of Charity M Loring, BSW, MSW, LMSW, CMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charity M Loring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LMSW, CMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124  (Online Only)
I specialize in: Relationship Issues Anger Management Anxiety LGBTQ Children Depression Divorce Domestic Abuse Grief and Loss OCD ADD/ADHD Parenting Trauma and PTSD Discounted rates and sliding scale based on income.
We all need emotional support in our lives. I respect the fact that it takes a level of bravery to step outside one's comfort zone to seek help in times of trouble. Getting therapy does not mean that you are "crazy". Instead, therapy can be empowering, and exercises our emotional potential. I provide an objective perspective and empathy that you may not typically receive from friends or family. I am honored to work with those who are attempting to seek help in bettering their lives.
I specialize in: Relationship Issues Anger Management Anxiety LGBTQ Children Depression Divorce Domestic Abuse Grief and Loss OCD ADD/ADHD Parenting Trauma and PTSD Discounted rates and sliding scale based on income.
We all need emotional support in our lives. I respect the fact that it takes a level of bravery to step outside one's comfort zone to seek help in times of trouble. Getting therapy does not mean that you are "crazy". Instead, therapy can be empowering, and exercises our emotional potential. I provide an objective perspective and empathy that you may not typically receive from friends or family. I am honored to work with those who are attempting to seek help in bettering their lives.
(734) 984-5378 View (734) 984-5378
Photo of Sarah Noda, MEd, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Noda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on anxiety, depression and mood disorders, trauma (including birth trauma and sexual assault), infertility and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ and multicultural identities.
Immediate availability for new clients! You want to heal, but feel lost, pressured, or self-critical? We all need extra help sometimes navigating difficult situations, transitions, trauma, or relationships, and the stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem that can ensue. I can’t wait to empower you to take control of your life and grow into your new path. Each person is unique, so I adapt my therapeutic interventions to your strengths, current needs, and goals using an integrative, culturally-sensitive approach. My practice is virtual, using HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing, to make help more accessible to you.
My practice focuses on anxiety, depression and mood disorders, trauma (including birth trauma and sexual assault), infertility and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ and multicultural identities.
Immediate availability for new clients! You want to heal, but feel lost, pressured, or self-critical? We all need extra help sometimes navigating difficult situations, transitions, trauma, or relationships, and the stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem that can ensue. I can’t wait to empower you to take control of your life and grow into your new path. Each person is unique, so I adapt my therapeutic interventions to your strengths, current needs, and goals using an integrative, culturally-sensitive approach. My practice is virtual, using HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing, to make help more accessible to you.
(734) 436-3513 View (734) 436-3513
Photo of Sarah R. Adair Williams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah R. Adair Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48126
I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, and PolyAm informed and aware.
After our first session, most of my clients express feeling relief and hope. Later in therapy, they tell me that sessions have changed their lives in surprising ways, and that they have learned things about themselves they didn't know before. It's very important to me that therapy is useful and helpful. During our first session, we'll explore your goals and needs in therapy, and how you would like to feel better. At the end of our first hour together, you'll have someone on your side to help, and a plan to move forward. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, and PolyAm informed and aware.
After our first session, most of my clients express feeling relief and hope. Later in therapy, they tell me that sessions have changed their lives in surprising ways, and that they have learned things about themselves they didn't know before. It's very important to me that therapy is useful and helpful. During our first session, we'll explore your goals and needs in therapy, and how you would like to feel better. At the end of our first hour together, you'll have someone on your side to help, and a plan to move forward. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
(313) 251-2517 View (313) 251-2517
Photo of Jacques D Short, MA, TMLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jacques D Short
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TMLP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
I focus on the connectedness among developmental, social, relational, and cultural factors. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I work with clients dealing with many different issues. I have worked with clients from a myriad of racial and ethnic backgrounds but have focused experience working with Black and Native American clients striving to work through race-related stress and racial identity concerns. I work with sexual identity and gender identity concerns (e.g., trans, questioning, gender non-conforming).
I focus on the connectedness among developmental, social, relational, and cultural factors. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I work with clients dealing with many different issues. I have worked with clients from a myriad of racial and ethnic backgrounds but have focused experience working with Black and Native American clients striving to work through race-related stress and racial identity concerns. I work with sexual identity and gender identity concerns (e.g., trans, questioning, gender non-conforming).
(734) 659-4075 View (734) 659-4075
Photo of Genera Fields, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genera Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinician, I am firmly antiracist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and judgment-free.
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
As a clinician, I am firmly antiracist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and judgment-free.
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
(517) 879-0938 View (517) 879-0938
Photo of Kenny Rose, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenny Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48126
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, lacking energy, or not feeling present in your body or the world? If so, welcome to being human. But seriously, it's completely understandable to be experiencing some or all of these symptoms while existing in this patriarchal, white-supremacist and capitalist country. It is not our fault that traumatic things have happened to us. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can learn, practice, and embody new ways of being. We will heal as an act of resistance! I feel honored to do this work, and I am here to support you on your healing journey.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, lacking energy, or not feeling present in your body or the world? If so, welcome to being human. But seriously, it's completely understandable to be experiencing some or all of these symptoms while existing in this patriarchal, white-supremacist and capitalist country. It is not our fault that traumatic things have happened to us. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can learn, practice, and embody new ways of being. We will heal as an act of resistance! I feel honored to do this work, and I am here to support you on your healing journey.
(313) 513-2084 View (313) 513-2084
Photo of Ellen Keyt, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Ellen Keyt
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
I believe that positive change happens in a safe, supportive environment where people feel heard, accepted and understood. You or your loved ones may be coping with life changes or overwhelming feelings. You may be facing relationship or parenting challenges, or you may be seeking more satisfaction in life. My 20+ years of experience allows me to use a range of techniques to help you.
I believe that positive change happens in a safe, supportive environment where people feel heard, accepted and understood. You or your loved ones may be coping with life changes or overwhelming feelings. You may be facing relationship or parenting challenges, or you may be seeking more satisfaction in life. My 20+ years of experience allows me to use a range of techniques to help you.
(313) 486-5877 View (313) 486-5877
Photo of Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling unheard? Have you felt that others have been quick to label your distress, but not support your healing? Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
Have you been feeling unheard? Have you felt that others have been quick to label your distress, but not support your healing? Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
(734) 838-4497 View (734) 838-4497
Photo of Amy Harrison - Serenity Step LLC, LMSW , CAADC , CCS-DP , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Step LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , CAADC , CCS-DP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48128
Welcome! I'm Amy Harrison, a Clinical Social Worker since 2016 with experience in the field of mental health and substance use disorders. I see clients in their home, at the office, or online via video. I am passionate about helping clients challenge themselves, explore their underlying thought patterns and beliefs that may be interfering with their lives, as well as enhancing their lives, and creating a holistic approach to wellness and identity. My goal is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives by addressing the interconnected aspects of their mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.
Welcome! I'm Amy Harrison, a Clinical Social Worker since 2016 with experience in the field of mental health and substance use disorders. I see clients in their home, at the office, or online via video. I am passionate about helping clients challenge themselves, explore their underlying thought patterns and beliefs that may be interfering with their lives, as well as enhancing their lives, and creating a holistic approach to wellness and identity. My goal is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives by addressing the interconnected aspects of their mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.
(313) 513-7095 View (313) 513-7095
Photo of Frank Sollars - Sollars and Associates, LP, Psychologist
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48126
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Narmane Daou Hamka, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Narmane Daou Hamka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48126
I work with individuals as well as couples on a variety of issues including, Anxiety/Panic disorder, Depression, Life Transitions, Adolescent Transitions, Relationship issues, Eating Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Depersonalization and Derealization.
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness; it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing that the light will shine again. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe place to feel relaxed and able to speak freely and honestly. I'm there to motivate, engage and guide them. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, problem solving and motivational techniques. I aim to provide an empathically supportive atmosphere, where clients can feel at ease, take a deep breath and begin to look at their life's problems from a fresh, new perspective.
I work with individuals as well as couples on a variety of issues including, Anxiety/Panic disorder, Depression, Life Transitions, Adolescent Transitions, Relationship issues, Eating Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Depersonalization and Derealization.
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness; it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing that the light will shine again. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe place to feel relaxed and able to speak freely and honestly. I'm there to motivate, engage and guide them. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, problem solving and motivational techniques. I aim to provide an empathically supportive atmosphere, where clients can feel at ease, take a deep breath and begin to look at their life's problems from a fresh, new perspective.
(313) 251-4667 View (313) 251-4667
Photo of Lina Bazzi, MA, LLPC
Lina Bazzi
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
Let me walk alongside you through each stage of transition.
Asking for help can be challenging. Let me help you release the grip of suffering and rediscover your wisdom, truth, and joy. Sometimes we can be loath to give up old patterns and learned behaviors that we lean on regardless of the distress they can cause. In today’s perplex world, it can be easy to lose sight of our reality. We often end up ignoring or minimizing our issues rather than taking the time to process and speak about them. Whether it be a transitional time in your life, trauma, depression, anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self, the most important thing you can do is seek support.
Let me walk alongside you through each stage of transition.
Asking for help can be challenging. Let me help you release the grip of suffering and rediscover your wisdom, truth, and joy. Sometimes we can be loath to give up old patterns and learned behaviors that we lean on regardless of the distress they can cause. In today’s perplex world, it can be easy to lose sight of our reality. We often end up ignoring or minimizing our issues rather than taking the time to process and speak about them. Whether it be a transitional time in your life, trauma, depression, anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self, the most important thing you can do is seek support.
(313) 217-4242 View (313) 217-4242
Photo of Jason Gerou, MA, LPC, CCTP, Counselor
Jason Gerou
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48126
You’ve been staring at your computer screen for the last hour and have made zero progress. You must have read and reread this report a dozen times, but you’re still not sure what any of it says. For some reason, you just can’t seem to focus on anything lately. Work assignments are late, your home is a mess, and your relationships are falling apart. It’s as though you’re in a downward spiral of chaos with no way to slow your descent. You wish there was some way to regain the control and normalcy you once took for granted. But making any change feels hopeless, and you’re just about ready to give up. There must be some other way.
You’ve been staring at your computer screen for the last hour and have made zero progress. You must have read and reread this report a dozen times, but you’re still not sure what any of it says. For some reason, you just can’t seem to focus on anything lately. Work assignments are late, your home is a mess, and your relationships are falling apart. It’s as though you’re in a downward spiral of chaos with no way to slow your descent. You wish there was some way to regain the control and normalcy you once took for granted. But making any change feels hopeless, and you’re just about ready to give up. There must be some other way.
(313) 351-9458 View (313) 351-9458
1
LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.